Apple and IBM have announced a new initiative that will see Japanese senior citizens get iPads with software designed to keep them engaged and connected with health care providers.
The iPads will come with software designed by IBM. Health data will be controlled via HealthKit and ResearchKit, and health experts will have access to it. Japan Post, which provides postal, banking and insurance services in Japan, will roll out the initiative itself.
"We are joining with two of the world's most respected leaders in technology to bring our elderly generation into the connected world, expand our businesses by deepening relationships, and discover new ways to strengthen the fabric of our society and economy," said CEO of Japan Post Group Taizo Nishimuro.
The pilot program for the initiative will start in the second half of 2015, and Japan Post hopes to deliver iPads with IBM software to five million customers in Japan by 2020.
Japan itself currently has over 33 million senior citizens, with these people making up a quarter of Japan's population. Over the next four decades, however, it is expected that senior citizens will make up 40 percent of the country's population.
"This initiative has potential for global impact, as many countries face the challenge of supporting an aging population, and we are honored to be involved in supporting Japan's senior citizens and helping enrich their lives," said Apple CEO Tim Cook. "iPad is incredibly intuitive, easy to use and has accessibility features built in, making it a perfect device for any generation to be connected and engaged."
Essentially, Apple will provide the iPad with its iOS operating system, which already has a number of services and features designed to help users keep track of their health. IBM will then develop a series of apps and services designed to remind users about medication, diet and exercise. It will also offer services for grocery shopping.
Tim Cook stressed at an event introducing the service that it will greatly improve the quality of life for senior citizens. He also talked about how HealthKit and ResearchKit will be used for the new initiative, as well as the fitness and tracking features included in the new Apple Watch.
The new initiative is certainly interesting, especially considering that a partnership between Apple and IBM would have, at one time, been considered totally unimaginable. It's nice to see the two companies working together for the greater good. It's unknown if the partnership will extend into other markets or countries.
